Animal Rescue Opens Thrift Shop Here

Fundraiser for Better Days Animal League set for May 28

By Chanin Rotz-Mountz

STAFF WRITER

Better Days Animal League has opened a thrift shop in the former Fulton Motors building along Lincoln Way West in McConnellsburg. Operated by volunteer manager Jennifer Tomlinson, the business boasts a variety of items for sale ranging from electronics and furniture to clothing and household items. Fannettsburg resident Jennifer Tomlinson certainly has a soft spot for animals. Whether it be horses or sheltie dogs, Tomlinson’s affection has led her down a path that has allowed her to be directly involved with animals throughout her entire life.

Tomlinson has worked as a professional groomer, operated her own animal rescues and now serves in the capacity of volunteer manager of the newly opened Better Days Animal League (BDAL) thrift shop in McConnellsburg. Operating out of the former Fulton Motors location along Lincoln Way West, the thrift shop boasts a variety of items ranging from clothing and household items to furniture and electronics as well as weekly specials.

Sale proceeds, beyond covering local rent and utilities, according to Tomlinson, are earmarked for discretionary use by BDAL, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal rescue organization. The no-kill rescue was established in 2007 just outside Shippensburg by Humane Society police officer and founder Dennis Bumbaugh. Since its creation, the organization has reportedly rescued 3,000 neglected or abandoned animals.

BDAL has been working in Fulton County throughout the last year, with Bumbaugh being contacted to investigate numerous allegations of cruelty and neglect. Tomlinson noted funding raised at the thrift shop can be used for a variety of measures such as veterinary costs at the shelter, local investigation costs and to train another officer to aid Bumbaugh locally in his duties.

Donations are currently being accepted during the shop’s regular business hours Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tomlinson said any residents wishing to drop off donations of a sizeable quantity or wanting to make an after-hours donation are asked to give advance notice by calling 717-414-1942. Items are asked to be clean and in good condition.

Having received a warm welcome by residents and local animal enthusiasts, such as herself, Tomlinson is hoping foot traffic and awareness of the store improve as BDAL continues to increase its presence here through community events and fundraisers.

In addition to their plans to host a carwash in the near future, BDAL with help from Butterfly Gardens on Cito Road, Mc- Connellsburg, will hold a bake/food sale and raffle on Saturday, May 28, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., BDAL representatives and volunteers will be on site with animals currently up for adoption.

BDAL is also offering 12X12 vendor spots outside its thrift shop through the summer months. Cost to rent a spot is $10 daily or $15 for two days.

Individuals wishing to learn more about BDAL and local rescue efforts can visit the organization’s Web site at www.betterdaysanimalleague.org or by attending regular meetings held at St. Stephen Catholic Church in McConnellsburg. Meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. the first Monday of each month.